# How does Kava Extract Work

**URL:** <https://boards.straightdope.com/t/how-does-kava-extract-work/62035>\
**Category:** Factual Questions\
**Created:** [April 15, 2001, 4:19am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/how-does-kava-extract-work/62035 "2001-04-15T04:19:23Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![Markxxx](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/5daacb/32.png) [@Markxxx](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Markxxx)\
**Post date:** [April 15, 2001, 4:19am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/how-does-kava-extract-work/62035/1 "2001-04-15T04:19:23Z")

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I have taken herbal supplements and none have ever had any effect on me.

About a week ago, being fed up with work, I saw Kava Extract for tension and to relax. I took one and boy did I sleep well. I was so relaxed. It felt like I took a bunch of valium.

How does this herb or drug effect the body to produce this effect?

I was suprised as I really didn’t expect it to do any good. And it left no morning after effect.

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**Author:** ![techchick68](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/ea5d25/32.png) [@techchick68](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/techchick68)\
**Post date:** [April 15, 2001, 4:32am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/how-does-kava-extract-work/62035/2 "2001-04-15T04:32:39Z")

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I use Kava Kava for my panic attacks…it doesn’t make me sleepy though.

Previously I have done a buttload of internet research, every thing from [WebMD.com](http://WebMD.com), CNN, to even seller’s sites.

> **[WebMD - Better information. Better health.](https://www.webmd.com)**
>
> The leading source for trustworthy and timely health and medical news and information. Providing credible health information, supportive community, and educational services by blending award-winning expertise in content, community services, expert...

> [@](#):
>
> Research shows that the active ingredients in Kava Kava (kava pyrones) do in fact have a calming, sedative effect. They also appear to relax the muscles, relieve spasms, and prevent convulsions. At least two scientific studies have confirmed the herb’s ability to significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety. In a third study, researchers rated it as effective as prescription tranquilizers.

Usually I take it before a situation where I might have anxious feelings (I will be taking it before tomorrow’s Easter gathering). I have not had a panic attack after I have taken it…it’s been a life saver and part of the reason I am mentally healing better (I believe) than when I was taking Wellbutrin.

Just a reminder, with any medication or herbal supplement, if you are taking prescriptions or over the counter meds, consult your doctor or at least read up on the stuff. Many people forget that because it’s an herb it still has the potential for side effects.